Liverpool face battle with Everton and Chelsea for wantaway Aubameyang

Liverpool are preparing to launch a bid for Dortmund frontman Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang in January, according to the Express.

The Reds see the Gabon international as potential replacement for Daniel Sturridge, who is reportedly planning to leave Anfield in early 2018 due to his limited playing time under Jurgen Klopp.

The former Chelsea man was also left out of The Three Lions’ squad by England boss Gareth Southgate. Sturridge hopes he can get more playing time to save his World Cup dream, something that might not happen if he remains at the Merseyside outfit.

Aubameyang has scored 17 times in 19 appearances so far this season. However, he is reportedly unhappy at Signal Iduna Park and seeks a way out.

According to Bild, Dortmund are ready to part ways with their last-season leading goal-scorer - 31 goals - go for no less than £54 million.

Klopp and the frontman worked together at Borussia from 2008 to 2015. Aubameyang led Die Borussen to a DFL Super Cup triumph in 2013 after his arrival from Saint-Etienne.

The striker’s future is at stake following the red card he received in the derby against Schalke that ended in a heart-stopping 4-4 draw. BVB were also kicked out of the UEFA Champions League after six win-less matches in the group stage, forcing Peter Bosz and company to console themselves with Europa League participation.

The Toffees are in dire need to fill the shoes of Romelu Lukaku who moved to Manchester United this summer, while Conte might seek to deepen his options up front and provide Alvaro Morata with a striking partner.